Located in the western part of the Sahara Desert, the Islamic Republic of Mauritania covers an area of 1.03 million sq km, with Nouakchott serving as its capital. It has a population of 3.08 million, with Moors and Blacks each accounting for 30 percent. Islam is the national religion. Arabic is the official language and French is extensively used. The head of the state is Ely Ould Mohamed Vall.

Since China and Mauritania established diplomatic relations on July 19, 1965, bilateral ties have been developing steadily and smoothly. The two countries support each other and work in close cooperation in international affairs. Substantial results have been achieved in bilateral cooperation in such areas as trade, agriculture, fishing, infrastructure construction, energy and health. Bilateral trade topped 78 million U.S. dollars in 2005.